Pat Leuschen, Ph.D., assistant dean for research development in the School of Allied Health Professions, is retiring at the end of June after more than 35 years on the faculty at UNMC.

Dr. Leuschen has held numerous faculty appointments during her tenure. She has held an appointment in Genetics, Cell Biology & Anatomy since 1994, providing anatomy instruction to health profession students.

See sidebar for details on retirement tea.

She served as chair of the Medical Sciences Interdepartmental Area (MISA) graduate program for 21 years from 1989-2010. In 2005, she was recognized for her considerable contributions to graduate studies with the UNMC Faculty Mentor of Graduate Students Award.

"Pat was the backbone of the MSIA program, effectively managing what has historically been UNMC's largest graduate program," said Dave Crouse, Ph.D., former associate vice chancellor for academic affairs and executive dean of graduate studies. "It simply could not have been as successful without her dedicated leadership."

In 2007, she became the SAHP's first assistant dean for research development.

"Pat has made tremendous contributions toward advancing the research mission of the SAHP," said Kyle Meyer, Ph.D., senior associate dean of the SAHP. "Under Dr. Leuschen's leadership, the SAHP has experienced significant growth in research infrastructure and funding."

In what was perhaps the ultimate expression of her commitment, Dr. Leuschen in 2010 partnered with the University of Nebraska Foundation and the Charles R. O'Malley Charitable Trust Fund to establish the M. Patricia and James W. Leuschen Professorship for the Advancement of Research in the Allied Health Professions.

The endowed professorship - one of the SAHP's first - provides research support for SAHP faculty, and honors Dr. Leuschen's late husband, Jim.

"It was a transformative gift for allied health," Dr. Meyer said, "It demonstrates Pat's strong belief in the value of research and continues the Leuschen family tradition of generous support for their community."

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Kathy Burke

June 27, 2013 at 11:08 AM

Have a wonderful retirement! Now you can travel even more!!!

Greg Karst

June 26, 2013 at 10:34 AM

Pat: You have been such a great advocate and supporter of our School for so many years, and your gift for the endowed chair position is one that will continue to make your presence felt here for many years. Enjoy your retirement, but don't forget to comeback and visit us now and then -- I will certainly miss hearing your unique views on the world.

Fran Higgins

June 26, 2013 at 8:55 AM

Thanks for everything, Pat! I admire your work ethic and perseverance.

Retirement tea

The School of Allied Health Professions is hosting a retirement tea for Dr. Leuschen from 2:30-4:30 p.m. Thursday in the Private Dining Rooms. The campus is invited.